In a hotel in Montclair, New Jersey, the staff is faced with a common but difficult problem: their fire-rated wood door hinges are failing to keep the doors closed properly. Despite installing standard 4.5″ x 4.5″  spring hinges on each door, these 3070 heavy-duty fire-rated wood doors fail to remain closed without additional help.  The hotel management doesn’t like to install a door closer which affects its door look, leading them to seek an alternative solution.

self drilling screw for wood door

Used Screws are the Problem

Improving and upgrading door hardware on residential and commercial buildings can be a challenge for a number of reasons.  For example, screw holes on wood frames of the mahogany door tend to enlarge and loosen when screws are removed, causing the holes to be less effective and secure.  Besides, screw hinge patterns may vary from one maker to another, leading to binding during a retrofit and thus restricting smooth door closing.  These are common and potentially expensive problems for commercial buildings, especially hotels that endeavor to upgrade their facilities. 

Comparison of hinges installation screws: Standard #12-24 UNC and pointed screws vs. new self-drilling screws for metal and wood doors.

Waterson Self-Drilling Solution

Waterson Closer Hinges combine an overhead closer and hinge into one attractive component with optional hold-open and door-stop features. These hinges are ideal for commercial openings, gates, and glass doors. The closer hinges are easily installed and adjusted to comply with ADA & ICC A117.1 requirements for opening force and to assure quiet, secure closing. Made with stainless steel, Waterson hinges meet NFPA 80 and are UL 3-hour fire-rated, as well as being suitable for both interior and all-weather exterior openings. See all our features.

Request For Quote

Please note that Waterson Closer Hinges start from a size of 4″x4″. If you’re in need of smaller self-closing hinges, we’d recommend checking out some other resources! Also, we only provide single acting closer hinges. Thank you.

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